Rough Shooting
What is Rough Shooting?
Rough shooting is a type of hunting that involves shooting game birds or small animals in their natural habitat, typically in a rural or semi-rural area. It is often done on foot and involves walking through fields, woods, or other natural areas to flush out and shoot the game. Rough shooting can be a challenging and rewarding outdoor activity that requires a good knowledge of the terrain, the habits of the game, and a keen eye for spotting and shooting targets.
Rough shooting days are exciting and ideal for working your own dogs to enhance their hunting and retrieval confidence. The dogs will flush game out of hedgerows, woods and other coverings as they walk along and will retrieve the shot game for the shooter to dispatch.
This form of shooting provides an opportunity for dogs to work in difficult terrains, which will help to build their confidence. In addition, rough shooting days are an excellent way to introduce young dogs to hunting, as they will be able to observe and learn from experienced dogs.
Rough shooting is also a great way for shooters to practice their skills whether they’re beginners or more advanced in training.
Rough Shooting all Over the UK
We have access to over 210’000 acres of land across the UK for rough shooting in multiple locations across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
You can choose from over 30’000 acres of land in Leicestershire and Northamptonshire for Duck, Geese and Wood Pigeon or make a memorable weekend shooting 22’000 acres in Scotland hunting Woodcock and other wildfowl. With shootingsh we have one of the biggest land portfolios for rough shooting in the UK.
Want to Join Our Walked and Driven Community?
Passionate about shooting? Whether you’re drawn to the camaraderie of rough shooting or the challenge of syndicate hunting, we have membership options that cater to your interests. With ShootingSH, you’ll be joining a community that values tradition, respect for the land, and the thrill of the sport.
Our memberships offer exclusive access to shooting opportunities, events, and valuable resources tailored to your passion. Both options connect you with like-minded individuals, provide expert guidance, and unlock unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Explore our memberships to find the one that best fits your needs, and take your place in the field with ShootingSH!
When most people think of “rough shooting,” they might imagine a day spent hunting in the rugged backcountry. For those who are into rough shooting, this is only one aspect of this exciting pursuit. Rough shooting can encompass everything from driven pheasant shoots to walked-up grouse hunts, and there are infinite ways to enjoy this challenging and rewarding style of hunting. Whether you’re a first-time participant or have been enjoying rough shooting for years, here are some tips to help make the most of your next adventure
Despite its name, rough shooting is not just about chasing game through dense cover. In fact, much of the fun comes from carefully planning each step of the hunt and using your knowledge of the terrain to outsmart.
Types of Rough Shooting
It is important for those who are unsure to know the different aspects of rough shooting. These can be divided into three main categories; rough; walked-up and walk one, stand one.
Rough Shooting
Rough shooting is ‘hunting’ at its most basic and usually, involves a small number of guns and dogs walking around a predefined area on a farm or estate boundary in pursuit of birds and ground game (rabbits, hares etc.). Usually, the team will not have beaters with them but will work their own dogs in hedgerows, small woods and rough uncultivated parcels of land, flushing and shooting game as they please. Some rough shooting can be done on horseback.
The rough shooter needs to be a competent shot as there are often long-range shots involved and also needs to be proficient in loading and reloading his/her gun quickly as there are often numerous shots taken during the day. A typical day’s rough shooting would see the team spend several hours out in the field, walking up game and taking pot shots at birds and rabbits. At the end of the day, the team would return to the farmhouse or lodge for a well-earned dinner and drink by the fire.
In rough shooting, hunters often have to be more physically fit, as the terrain can be challenging to traverse, and the hunting grounds can be quite expansive. They also need to be able to navigate through dense vegetation, climb over obstacles, and move quietly and stealthily to avoid spooking their prey.
Rough shooting is a great way to spend a day in the countryside surrounded by nature, fresh air and good company. It is also an excellent way to hone one’s shooting skills as it tests accuracy and speed under pressure. Not only does rough shooting help to improve your fitness, but it also helps to reduce stress levels and improve your mobility. It can also be a great way to meet new people and make new friends whilst learning new skills and techniques.
Walked-up Shooting
Walked-up shooting, a relatively new term, is becoming more popular among hunters. The main difference between walked-up shooting and other types of hunting is that the former does not involve blinds or dogs. Instead, hunters simply walk through the woods until they spot an animal. While this may seem like a more difficult way to hunt, it actually has a number of advantages.
First, it allows hunters to be more mobile, making it easier to cover ground and find game. Second, it provides a more natural hunting experience, as hunters are able to take in all the sights and sounds of the woods. Finally, walked-up shooting is often less expensive than other types of hunting, as it does not require the use of expensive equipment.
For all these reasons, walked-up shooting is becoming increasingly popular among hunters of all ages.
Walk One, Stand One
These types of shoots are growing in popularity recently. They are a good way of combining both driven and walked-up shooting. Two teams take it in turns to walk and beat while the other team stands on a peg. Most shoots, however, do only allow the walking team to shoot up to a certain point.
When undertaking Walk One, Stand One shooting, it is recommended that you are familiar with the people on both teams. Co-ordination of who is shooting in certain areas is key. If you are driving, you need to be aware people are also waiting on the peg also to shoot, and an element of communication and fairness is needed.
Join Our Walked and Driven Syndicate
We are one of the best value rough shooting syndicates based in the UK. With access to multiple rough shooting locations all over the country and a huge team, you will be spoilt for choice on where to go rough shooting.
Our prices are also remarkably low, To join our rough shooting syndicate for one year costs only £650 and you gain access to driven, walked-up, rough shooting and pigeon shooting.
For this price, you get access to over 210’000 acres of land and will surely create some unforgettable experiences and big catches from pheasant, woodcock, rabbits and snipe.
What Equipment do I need For Rough Shooting?
When you go out Rough shooting having the right kit is very important. The equipment needed for rough shooting can vary depending on the specific game being hunted and the environment in which it’s hunted, but some basic equipment includes:
- Shotgun: A shotgun is a primary tool for hunting game birds, and small game. A 12 or 20-gauge shotgun is commonly used for upland game hunting. You may also consider various chokes depending on whether the target birds are close to you or if you are shooting at a distance.
- Ammunition: The type of ammunition used depends on the game being hunted. You may vary ammunition type; some people prefer t use fibre wads to lessen the environmental impacts of the day rough shooting.
- Hunting clothes: It’s important to wear appropriate clothing for the weather and environment. Clothing should be comfortable, quiet, and blend in with the surroundings.
- Boots: Good, comfortable boots with good traction are essential for walking long distances and traversing rough terrain. Waterproof boots are recommended as you often walk through wet or muddy ground.
- Firearms license: A valid firearms license will be required, we don’t want to see anybody losing their guns. We can help you with our firearms training and application if you need a license.
- Game bags are used to carry the harvested game.
- Hunting knife: A hunting knife is used to field dress game.
- Water and snacks: Staying hydrated and energized is important, especially when walking long distances.
- Binoculars: Binoculars are useful for spotting game and scouting the terrain.
- Maps and compass: These tools can be used to navigate the terrain and locate areas where game may be found.
It’s important to note that some areas may have additional equipment requirements or restrictions, so be sure to check local regulations before heading out on a hunt.
Benefits of Rough Shooting
Here are some of the many benefits that you get from rough shooting;
- Experience the thrill of the hunt
- Good physical exercise
- Enjoy the outdoors and nature
- De-stress yourself from business or personal life
- Meet new people and socialise
- Experience attending a sporting event and being part of a group
- Feel the satisfcation of providing food for your table
- Adventure in the outdoors
This year’s animal hunting seasons are finally here! After much anticipation, hunters all across the country can now head out into the great outdoors and pursue their favourite game. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a new hunter, make sure to brush up on the rules and regulations for your state before hitting the trails. Plan ahead with us and be safe out there! Further details of the below hunting seasons can be found here.
Breed | Open Season | Hunt Locations |
|---|---|---|
October 1st 2024 – February 1st 2025 | Multiple Locations England Northern Ireland Wales Scotland Isle of Man | |
September 1st 2024 – February 1st 2025 | Multiple Locations England Northern Ireland Wales Scotland Isle of Man | |
Red-legged Partridge
| September 1st 2024 – February 1st 2025 | Multiple Locations England Northern Ireland Wales Scotland Isle of Man |
Red Grouse
| August 12th 2024 – December 10th 2025
| Multiple Locations England Northern Ireland Wales Scotland Isle of Man |
August 20th 2024 – December 10th 2025
| Multiple Locations England | |
August 12th 2024 – December 10th 2025 | Scotland | |
September 1st 2024 – January 31st 2025 | Multiple Locations England Northern Ireland Wales Scotland Isle of Man Ducks – July 1 – Mar 31 – Geese** (**Geese can only be shot under general licence under the Wildlife Act 1990. See the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry) | |
Duck & Goose (below HWM)
| September 1st 2024 – February 20th 2025
| Multiple Locations England Northern Ireland Wales Scotland Isle of Man HWM – High Water Mark of ordinary spring tides England, Wales and Scotland: Any area below the high-water mark of ordinary spring tides Isle of Man: ** Geese can only be shot under general licence under the Wildlife Act 1990. See the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). |
August 12th 2024 – January 31st 2025 | Multiple Locations England Northern Ireland Wales Scotland Isle of Man | |
September 1st 2024 – January 31st 2025 | Northern Ireland | |
October 1st 2024 – January 31st 2025 | Scotland England Wales | |
September 1st 2024 – January 31st 2025
| Isle of Man | |
September 1st 2024 – January 31st 2025
| Northern Ireland Isle of Man | |
Brown Hare | January 1st 2024 – December 31st 2025 | Scotland – Open season Oct 1 – Jan 31 Northern Ireland – Aug 12 – Jan 31* Isle of Man – Brown or common hare – Oct 1 – Jan 31 * The Special Protection Order previously issued to give Irish hare additional protection is no longer in place and therefore the Irish Hare is now subject to an open season as above. In England and Wales under the Ground Game Act 1880 occupiers of land have an inalienable right to kill and take ground game concurrent with any other person holding such a right. Occupiers or a person authorised by them, acting under the authority of this act may only kill or take ground game on moorland between 1 September and 31 March inclusive. Further under Section 1 (3) and Ground Game Amendment Act 1906 Section 2) Firearms may only be used for such purposes between 11 December and 31 March. In Scotland, the occupier of the land or persons authorised by them may kill rabbit throughout the year on moorland and unenclosed land (not being arable) by all legal means but only by means of firearms during the period from 1 July to 31 March inclusive (Section 1 (3) of the Ground Game Act 1880 as modified by the Agriculture (Scotland) Act 1948). Hares are subject to a close season (Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2011) (see above). Moorland and unenclosed land does not include arable land or detached portions of land less than 25 acres which adjoins arable land. |
January 1st 2024 – December 31st 2025 | Scotland – Jan 1 – Dec 31 – No close season however certain restrictions can apply, see below. Northern Ireland – Rabbit is classed as a pest and therefore not subject to a close season. * The Special Protection Order previously issued to give Irish hare additional protection is no longer in place and therefore the Irish Hare is now subject to an open season as above. In England and Wales under the Ground Game Act 1880 occupiers of land have an inalienable right to kill and take ground game concurrent with any other person holding such a right. Occupiers or a person authorised by them, acting under the authority of this act may only kill or take ground game on moorland between 1 September and 31 March inclusive. Further under Section 1 (3) and Ground Game Amendment Act 1906 Section 2) Firearms may only be used for such purposes between 11 December and 31 March. In Scotland, the occupier of the land or persons authorised by them may kill rabbit throughout the year on moorland and unenclosed land (not being arable) by all legal means but only by means of firearms during the period from 1 July to 31 March inclusive (Section 1 (3) of the Ground Game Act 1880 as modified by the Agriculture (Scotland) Act 1948). Hares are subject to a close season (Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2011) (see above).. Moorland and unenclosed land does not include arable land or detached portions of land less than 25 acres which adjoins arable land. |
Join Our Walked and Driven Syndicate
We are one of the best value rough shooting syndicates based in the UK. With access to multiple rough shooting locations all over the country and a huge team, you will be spoilt for choice on where to go rough shooting.
Our prices are also remarkably low, To join our rough shooting syndicate for one year costs only £650 and you gain access to driven, walked-up, rough shooting and pigeon shooting.
For this price, you get access to over 210’000 acres of land and will surely create some unforgettable experiences and big catches from pheasant, woodcock, rabbits and snipe.